§ 40. Mr. Blenkinsopasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry whether he will now give details of the alternative to the Regional Employment Premium that he proposes to introduce to assist development areas.
§ Sir J. EdenI have at present nothing to add to what was said on 2nd November by my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister in the Debate on the Address.
§ Mr. BlenkinsopAre we not entitled to a clear and definite answer in view of the fact that only recently it was said that the Government have every intention of replacing R.E.P. by an alternative which was said to be very much better? Is it not time that we had a clear declaration of what that alternative is?
§ Sir J. EdenAs the hon. Gentleman knows, R.E.P. was originally introduced for seven years. There is still time in which to complete the studies on which we are engaged and to make an announcement about what will take place thereafter. We have undertaken to do this in good time.
Mr. Edward TaylorWill my hon. Friend discuss with the Chancellor of the Exchequer the possibility of the introduction of regional variations in income tax and corporation tax?
§ Sir J. EdenA general study of regional policy is now being carried out. However, we must bear in mind that R.E.P. costs £100 million a year and clearly does not yield value for money.
§ Mr. VarleyWhen will the Government's review of regional policy be completed and announced to the House?
§ Sir J. EdenAs soon as we have completed the discussions and studies which are now taking place.